US4433019A - Insulative fabric - Google Patents

Insulative fabric Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US4433019A
US4433019A US06/439,748 US43974882A US4433019A US 4433019 A US4433019 A US 4433019A US 43974882 A US43974882 A US 43974882A US 4433019 A US4433019 A US 4433019A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
fabric
film
insulation
polyethylene
insulative
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US06/439,748
Inventor
James F. Chumbley
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US06/439,748 priority Critical patent/US4433019A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US4433019A publication Critical patent/US4433019A/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/12—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin next to a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D31/00—Materials specially adapted for outerwear
    • A41D31/04—Materials specially adapted for outerwear characterised by special function or use
    • A41D31/14—Air permeable, i.e. capable of being penetrated by gases
    • A41D31/145—Air permeable, i.e. capable of being penetrated by gases using layered materials
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G9/02—Bed linen; Blankets; Counterpanes
    • A47G9/0207—Blankets; Duvets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/022—Non-woven fabric
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2367/00—Polyesters, e.g. PET, i.e. polyethylene terephthalate
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/62—Insulation or other protection; Elements or use of specified material therefor
    • E04B1/74—Heat, sound or noise insulation, absorption, or reflection; Other building methods affording favourable thermal or acoustical conditions, e.g. accumulating of heat within walls
    • E04B1/76—Heat, sound or noise insulation, absorption, or reflection; Other building methods affording favourable thermal or acoustical conditions, e.g. accumulating of heat within walls specifically with respect to heat only
    • E04B2001/7683—Fibrous blankets or panels characterised by the orientation of the fibres
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24058—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including grain, strips, or filamentary elements in respective layers or components in angular relation
    • Y10T428/24074—Strand or strand-portions
    • Y10T428/24091—Strand or strand-portions with additional layer[s]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24058—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including grain, strips, or filamentary elements in respective layers or components in angular relation
    • Y10T428/24074—Strand or strand-portions
    • Y10T428/24091—Strand or strand-portions with additional layer[s]
    • Y10T428/24099—On each side of strands or strand-portions
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/29—Coated or structually defined flake, particle, cell, strand, strand portion, rod, filament, macroscopic fiber or mass thereof
    • Y10T428/2913—Rod, strand, filament or fiber
    • Y10T428/2973—Particular cross section
    • Y10T428/2975—Tubular or cellular
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/31504—Composite [nonstructural laminate]
    • Y10T428/31678—Of metal
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/31504—Composite [nonstructural laminate]
    • Y10T428/31678—Of metal
    • Y10T428/31681—Next to polyester, polyamide or polyimide [e.g., alkyd, glue, or nylon, etc.]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T442/00—Fabric [woven, knitted, or nonwoven textile or cloth, etc.]
    • Y10T442/10—Scrim [e.g., open net or mesh, gauze, loose or open weave or knit, etc.]
    • Y10T442/184—Nonwoven scrim

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a novel insulative fabric comprising a sandwich of synthetic insulation around an aluminized polymeric film.
  • quilting material for quilts or clothing includes use of natural material, such as goose or duck down, which is blown into envelopes stitched in the quilt. Although extremely warm when fluffed and dry, down is a poor insulator when packed or wet. To overcome this problem, fibrous polymeric materials which trap air within their porous structures have been developed.
  • HOLLOFILLTM (a registered trademark of the DuPont Company) is a filamentous, microtubular polyester which is produced in mats so that the fibers form a filter-like material. This synthetic insulator is superior to down because it is less susceptible to packing and is effective even when wet. In use, however, even the synthetic insulators have the problem of bunching within the quilting.
  • the insulative capacity of the clothing or comforter is nonuniform across the entire fabric because less insulation is provided in certain areas, such as the quilting lines, where the fabric is drawn tightly together. Furthermore, to provide the same insulative capacity of natural insulators, it is commonly necessary to use a thick layer of synthetic insulation. Substitution of synthetic insulation for the natural insulation is therefore hindered.
  • the present invention relates to a novel insulative fabric which provides a warm, uniformly insulative, substantially crinkle-free, thin (although highly resistive to heat transfer), soft, fleecy-quality, reflective, breathable, lightweight insulative fabric which is suitable for use in quilts, comforters, or clothing.
  • the insulative fabric will not bunch up and is thereby better suited to provide a uniform insulation.
  • the insulative fabric comprises a substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polymeric film sandwiched between spaced layers of synthetic insulation which is needle punched through the film to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing its insulative capacity and to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable.
  • a fabric of this nature is soft and fleecy in character, is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness, and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.
  • Aluminized polymer films of the prior art are unsuitable for use in the fabric of the present invention because they crinkle or rustle when folded or wrinkled.
  • aluminized polymeric film is the "Space Blanket," which is an aluminized MYLARTM (a trademark of the DuPont Company).
  • Space Blanket which is an aluminized MYLARTM (a trademark of the DuPont Company).
  • the polyester film in most aluminized reflective layers is too rigid and inflexible to provide the desired characteristics of the polymeric film of the present invention.
  • the synthetic insulation is hollow, microtubular, filamentous insulation which is designed in a mat to provide a soft, fleecy quality to the insulation.
  • the filaments of this type of insulation are easily needle punched through the reflective film to reduce the overall thickness of the fabric which is produced.
  • the polymeric film is an aluminized polyethylene having a polyethylene film thickness of less than about 1.25 mils and an aluminization of approximately 8 ohms.
  • a scrim sheet of nonwoven polyester material is placed adjacent to the reflective film to provide additional strength so that the fabric may be used as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing.
  • the insulative fabric of the present invention is prevented from bunching up.
  • the filaments of the synthetic insulation extend through the synthetic film and are thereby stuck in a defined position.
  • Use of microtubular, hollow, filamentous insulation is preferred because this material provides improved insulative capacity for a given weight of synthetic insulation.
  • the hollow tubes provide a softer, more fleecy quality to the overall mat of synthetic insulation and provides the desired appearance of warmth and softness.
  • the insulative fabric of the present invention is generally less than about 0.50 inch thick (1.27 cm) so that it is easily incorporated into comforters, quilts, or clothing.
  • the fabric has between about 5-15 ounces of synthetic insulation per square yard of fabric and provides a high resistance to heat transfer because of the relatively high amount of synthetic insulation per square yard and the reflective capacity of the inner reflective film. Still, because the synthetic insulation is needle-punched through the reflective film, the overall insulative fabric is able to breath.
  • An insulative fabric of the present invention is substitutable for natural insulation. This new insulative fabric provides enhanced heat transfer resistance per volume of insulative fabric and is highly desirable for use in quilts, comforters, or clothing. A relatively thin, nonbulky, insulative fabric can more nearly perform with the characteristics of natural insulators and is easily handled in production.
  • FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway, isometric view of the insulative fabric of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a detailed isometric of the synthetic insulative layer of FIG. 1.
  • the insulative fabric of the present invention generally comprises four layers. Outer layers 10 and 12 of hollow, microtubular, filamentous, synthetic insulation sandwich inner layers 14 and 16.
  • One inner layer is a sheet 14 of breathable, substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polyethylene film having a thickness of no greater than about 1.25 mils and having about 8 ohms of aluminization deposited on one surface of the sheet.
  • a sheet 16 of nonwoven polyester material which provides sufficient tensile strength for the overall fabric so that the fabric may be used as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing.
  • the individual filaments 18 (FIG. 2) of the synthetic insulation in the outside layers 10 and 12 are individually needle-punched through the inner layers 14 and 16 to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric and to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable.
  • a completed insulated fabric of the present invention thus has a soft, fleecy quality; is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness of no greater than about 0.50 inch (1.27 cm); and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.
  • a thin film of polyethylene is particularly desirable for use as the reflective sheet at the center of the insulative fabric.
  • Conventional aluminized sheets usually include a thin layer of polyester. These sheets are too rigid for use in the present invention because they crinkle significantly when folded or wrinkled.
  • a pliant, thin layer of polyethylene is a highly desirable substitute.
  • the polyethylene generally has insufficient tensile strength to allow use of the fabric in clothing, comforters, or quilts. Therefore, it is important to use a scrim layer to provide the necessary tensile strength.
  • the scrim layer is attached directly above the polyethylene film and is interconnected with the polyethylene film through the needle punching.
  • Quilts made with the insulative fabric of the present invention have a generally uniform insulative capability because the fabric will not bunch up and will not build up higher layers of thermal heat resistance.
  • This insulative fabric is preferable for use in quilts, comforters, or clothing because of its uniform insulative capability.
  • the insulative fabric is fully breathable, so the fabric of the present invention is a decided improvement over the conventional "Space Blanket." In a thickness of less than about 0.50 inch (1.27 cm), the insulative fabric of the present invention can provide adequate warming for most winter uses.
  • This insulative ability is a combination of the use of between about 5-15 ounces of synthetic insulation per square yard of fabric and a reflective layer of aluminized polyethylene. The individual contributions of the separate insulative materials is not completely understood, but it is felt that the heat transfer capability of the fabric can be easily adjusted by varying the amount of synthetic insulation used.
  • the fabric of the present invention has one additional feature, namely, that the fabric is two-sided. That is, on one side of the fabric, an insulative reflective layer is incorporated into the fabric.
  • the overall insulative fabric may be oriented to either expel heat or to retain it.
  • the insulative fabric will be placed so that the reflective layer reflects heat toward to the person using the comforter.
  • the unique, lightweight insulative fabric of the present invention thus is a decided advance over previously developed, synthetic insulative fabrics.
  • This insulative fabric is able to compete favorably with natural insulators and can be produced at a decidedly reduced cost.
  • the overall uniformity of the fabric makes it particularly desirable to meet the thermal insulative needs of the present market.

Abstract

An insulative fabric generally comprises a central sheet of breathable, substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polymeric film and spaced layers of hollow, microtubular, filamentous synthetic insulation sandwiching the film. The polymeric film has sufficient tensile strength for use as a quilting fabric in quilts, comforters, or clothing, and its tensile strength may be enhanced by use of a scrim backing sheet placed directly adjacent the film. The spaced layers of synthetic insulation are individually needle-punched through the film to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric and to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable. In this manner, the fabric has a soft, fleecy quality, is of a substantially uniform thickness, and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a novel insulative fabric comprising a sandwich of synthetic insulation around an aluminized polymeric film.
BACKGROUND ART
Conventionally, quilting material for quilts or clothing includes use of natural material, such as goose or duck down, which is blown into envelopes stitched in the quilt. Although extremely warm when fluffed and dry, down is a poor insulator when packed or wet. To overcome this problem, fibrous polymeric materials which trap air within their porous structures have been developed. HOLLOFILL™ (a registered trademark of the DuPont Company) is a filamentous, microtubular polyester which is produced in mats so that the fibers form a filter-like material. This synthetic insulator is superior to down because it is less susceptible to packing and is effective even when wet. In use, however, even the synthetic insulators have the problem of bunching within the quilting. By bunching, the insulative capacity of the clothing or comforter is nonuniform across the entire fabric because less insulation is provided in certain areas, such as the quilting lines, where the fabric is drawn tightly together. Furthermore, to provide the same insulative capacity of natural insulators, it is commonly necessary to use a thick layer of synthetic insulation. Substitution of synthetic insulation for the natural insulation is therefore hindered.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to a novel insulative fabric which provides a warm, uniformly insulative, substantially crinkle-free, thin (although highly resistive to heat transfer), soft, fleecy-quality, reflective, breathable, lightweight insulative fabric which is suitable for use in quilts, comforters, or clothing. The insulative fabric will not bunch up and is thereby better suited to provide a uniform insulation.
In general terms, the insulative fabric comprises a substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polymeric film sandwiched between spaced layers of synthetic insulation which is needle punched through the film to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing its insulative capacity and to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable. A fabric of this nature is soft and fleecy in character, is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness, and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled. Aluminized polymer films of the prior art are unsuitable for use in the fabric of the present invention because they crinkle or rustle when folded or wrinkled. An example of an unsuitable aluminized polymeric film is the "Space Blanket," which is an aluminized MYLAR™ (a trademark of the DuPont Company). The polyester film in most aluminized reflective layers is too rigid and inflexible to provide the desired characteristics of the polymeric film of the present invention.
In a preferred embodiment, the synthetic insulation is hollow, microtubular, filamentous insulation which is designed in a mat to provide a soft, fleecy quality to the insulation. The filaments of this type of insulation are easily needle punched through the reflective film to reduce the overall thickness of the fabric which is produced.
Generally, the polymeric film is an aluminized polyethylene having a polyethylene film thickness of less than about 1.25 mils and an aluminization of approximately 8 ohms.
To provide additional tensile strength for the insulative fabric, a scrim sheet of nonwoven polyester material is placed adjacent to the reflective film to provide additional strength so that the fabric may be used as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing.
Because the synthetic insulation is needle punched through the reflective layer, the insulative fabric of the present invention is prevented from bunching up. The filaments of the synthetic insulation extend through the synthetic film and are thereby stuck in a defined position. Use of microtubular, hollow, filamentous insulation is preferred because this material provides improved insulative capacity for a given weight of synthetic insulation. Also, the hollow tubes provide a softer, more fleecy quality to the overall mat of synthetic insulation and provides the desired appearance of warmth and softness.
When completed, the insulative fabric of the present invention is generally less than about 0.50 inch thick (1.27 cm) so that it is easily incorporated into comforters, quilts, or clothing. The fabric has between about 5-15 ounces of synthetic insulation per square yard of fabric and provides a high resistance to heat transfer because of the relatively high amount of synthetic insulation per square yard and the reflective capacity of the inner reflective film. Still, because the synthetic insulation is needle-punched through the reflective film, the overall insulative fabric is able to breath. An insulative fabric of the present invention is substitutable for natural insulation. This new insulative fabric provides enhanced heat transfer resistance per volume of insulative fabric and is highly desirable for use in quilts, comforters, or clothing. A relatively thin, nonbulky, insulative fabric can more nearly perform with the characteristics of natural insulators and is easily handled in production.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway, isometric view of the insulative fabric of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a detailed isometric of the synthetic insulative layer of FIG. 1.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
As shown in FIG. 1, the insulative fabric of the present invention generally comprises four layers. Outer layers 10 and 12 of hollow, microtubular, filamentous, synthetic insulation sandwich inner layers 14 and 16. One inner layer is a sheet 14 of breathable, substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polyethylene film having a thickness of no greater than about 1.25 mils and having about 8 ohms of aluminization deposited on one surface of the sheet. Immediately adjacent this sheet 14 is a sheet 16 of nonwoven polyester material which provides sufficient tensile strength for the overall fabric so that the fabric may be used as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing.
The individual filaments 18 (FIG. 2) of the synthetic insulation in the outside layers 10 and 12 are individually needle-punched through the inner layers 14 and 16 to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric and to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable.
A completed insulated fabric of the present invention thus has a soft, fleecy quality; is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness of no greater than about 0.50 inch (1.27 cm); and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.
A thin film of polyethylene is particularly desirable for use as the reflective sheet at the center of the insulative fabric. Conventional aluminized sheets usually include a thin layer of polyester. These sheets are too rigid for use in the present invention because they crinkle significantly when folded or wrinkled. Through experimentation, it has been found that a pliant, thin layer of polyethylene is a highly desirable substitute. The polyethylene, however, generally has insufficient tensile strength to allow use of the fabric in clothing, comforters, or quilts. Therefore, it is important to use a scrim layer to provide the necessary tensile strength. The scrim layer is attached directly above the polyethylene film and is interconnected with the polyethylene film through the needle punching.
Quilts made with the insulative fabric of the present invention have a generally uniform insulative capability because the fabric will not bunch up and will not build up higher layers of thermal heat resistance. This insulative fabric is preferable for use in quilts, comforters, or clothing because of its uniform insulative capability. The insulative fabric is fully breathable, so the fabric of the present invention is a decided improvement over the conventional "Space Blanket." In a thickness of less than about 0.50 inch (1.27 cm), the insulative fabric of the present invention can provide adequate warming for most winter uses. This insulative ability is a combination of the use of between about 5-15 ounces of synthetic insulation per square yard of fabric and a reflective layer of aluminized polyethylene. The individual contributions of the separate insulative materials is not completely understood, but it is felt that the heat transfer capability of the fabric can be easily adjusted by varying the amount of synthetic insulation used.
The fabric of the present invention has one additional feature, namely, that the fabric is two-sided. That is, on one side of the fabric, an insulative reflective layer is incorporated into the fabric. Thus, the overall insulative fabric may be oriented to either expel heat or to retain it. Generally, when used as a comforter, the insulative fabric will be placed so that the reflective layer reflects heat toward to the person using the comforter.
The unique, lightweight insulative fabric of the present invention thus is a decided advance over previously developed, synthetic insulative fabrics. This insulative fabric is able to compete favorably with natural insulators and can be produced at a decidedly reduced cost. The overall uniformity of the fabric makes it particularly desirable to meet the thermal insulative needs of the present market.

Claims (9)

I claim:
1. An insulative fabric, comprising:
(a) a central sheet of breathable, substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polymeric film having sufficient tensile strength for use as a quilting fabric in quilts, comforters, or clothing; and
(b) spaced layers of hollow, microtubular, filamentous insulation sandwiching the film, each layer being needle-punched through the film
(1) to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric, and
(2) to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable,
wherein the fabric has a soft, fleecy quality; is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness; and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.
2. The fabric of claim 1, further comprising a sheet of nonwoven polyester material adjacent one side of the film and sandwiched by the insulation, the material providing substantially all of the tensile strength which allows the fabric to be used as a quilting fabric.
3. The fabric of claim 2 wherein the film is a polyethylene sheet having a thickness of no greater than about 1.25 mils, and the insulation is a polyester.
4. The fabric of claim 3 wherein the polyethylene film has about 18 ohms of aluminization deposited on one side.
5. The fabric of claim 4 wherein the fabric has an overall thickness of less than about 0.50 inch (1.27 cm) and includes between about 5-15 ounces of insulation/square yard of fabric.
6. An insulative fabric, consisting of:
(a) a central sheet of breathable, substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polyethylene film having a thickness of no greater than about 1.25 mils and having about 8 ohms of aluminization deposited on one surface of the sheet;
(b) a nonwoven polyester material adjacent the film to provide sufficient tensile strength to the fabric so that the fabric may be used as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing; and
(c) spaced layers of hollow, microtubular, filamentous polyester insulation, each layer being independently needle-punched through the film and material
(1) to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric, and
(2) to provide passageways through the film so that the film is breathable,
wherein the fabric has a soft, fleecy quality; is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness of no greater than about 0.50 inch (1.27 cm); and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.
7. An insulative fabric, comprising:
(a) a sheet of substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polyethylene;
(b) a scrim backing sheet adjacent to one side of the polyethylene to provide sufficient tensile strength to the fabric so that the fabric may be used as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing; and
(c) spaced layers of hollow, microtubular, filamentous polyester insulation sandwiching the polyethylene and scrim backing sheet, each layer being needle-punched through the polyethylene and scrim backing sheet
(1) to reduce the overall thickness of the fabric without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric, and
(2) to make the fabric breathable by providing air passageways through the polyethylene and scrim backing sheet,
wherein the fabric has a soft, fleecy quality; is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness; is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled, wherein one layer of insulation is immediately adjacent one surface of the polyethylene and the other layer of insulation is immediately adjacent one surface of the scrim backing sheet, and wherein the scrim backing sheet and polythylene having abutting surfaces.
8. The fabric of claim 7 wherein the scrim backing sheet is a nonwoven material.
9. An insulative fabric, comprising:
(a) a central sheet of breathable, substantially crinkle-free, pliant, aluminized polyethylene having sufficient tensile strength for use as a quilting material in quilts, comforters, or clothing; and
(c) spaced layers of hollow, microtubular, filamentous insulation sandwiching the polyethylene, each layer being needle-punched through the polyethylene
(1) to reduce the overall thickness of the insulation without substantially reducing the insulative capacity of the fabric, and
(2) to make the fabric breathable by providing air passageways through the polyethylene,
wherein the fabric has a soft, fleecy quality; is of a substantially uniform, predetermined thickness; and is substantially noiseless when folded or wrinkled.
US06/439,748 1982-11-08 1982-11-08 Insulative fabric Expired - Fee Related US4433019A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US06/439,748 US4433019A (en) 1982-11-08 1982-11-08 Insulative fabric

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US06/439,748 US4433019A (en) 1982-11-08 1982-11-08 Insulative fabric

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US4433019A true US4433019A (en) 1984-02-21

Family

ID=23745984

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US06/439,748 Expired - Fee Related US4433019A (en) 1982-11-08 1982-11-08 Insulative fabric

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US4433019A (en)

Cited By (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4569874A (en) * 1985-04-17 1986-02-11 Lawrence Kuznetz Sportswear fabric for cold climates
WO1988000818A1 (en) * 1986-07-25 1988-02-11 O.R. Concepts, Inc. Reflective surgical drape
EP0281331A1 (en) * 1987-02-28 1988-09-07 David Anthony Jones Surgical drape
US4837067A (en) * 1987-06-08 1989-06-06 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Nonwoven thermal insulating batts
US4889135A (en) * 1986-07-25 1989-12-26 O. R. Concepts, Inc. Reflective surgical drape
US4927705A (en) * 1988-08-08 1990-05-22 Syme Robert W Insulating laminate
US4974382A (en) * 1989-01-06 1990-12-04 Constructonika, Inc. Infiltration and energy barrier
EP0464350A1 (en) * 1990-06-13 1992-01-08 LAMAGOLD MIT DEM GRÜNEN KREUZ NATURHAARBETTEN GmbH Complete bed, comprising a bed cover, bed underlay, pillow and additional mat
USRE35427E (en) * 1986-07-25 1997-01-21 O.R. Concepts, Inc. Sterilizable reflective surgical drape
WO2001092618A2 (en) * 2000-06-02 2001-12-06 Soleno Textiles Techniques Inc. Sound and thermal insulating non-woven synthetic sheet material
WO2001094108A2 (en) * 2000-06-07 2001-12-13 Milliken & Company Flexible hanger strap composite
US20050112338A1 (en) * 2003-11-21 2005-05-26 Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Reduced-noise composite materials and disposable personal care devices employing same
WO2006043092A1 (en) * 2004-10-22 2006-04-27 Hunt Technology Limited Multi-layer thermal insulation system
WO2008077392A1 (en) * 2006-12-22 2008-07-03 Hubertus Brune Cover for covering extensive bodies
CN103538328A (en) * 2013-09-27 2014-01-29 苏州金荣华轻纺实业有限公司 Oxygen-inhaling shell fabric
US20180184737A1 (en) * 2017-01-03 2018-07-05 Ronie Reuben Article of warmth with inner replaceable thermally insulating panels
US11564448B2 (en) 2019-05-10 2023-01-31 Converse Inc. Reflective textile

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3009601A (en) * 1959-07-02 1961-11-21 Union Carbide Corp Thermal insulation
US3461026A (en) * 1966-06-23 1969-08-12 Du Pont Laminated fibrous batt
US4062993A (en) * 1973-05-31 1977-12-13 Seward William W Textile and method of making same

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3009601A (en) * 1959-07-02 1961-11-21 Union Carbide Corp Thermal insulation
US3461026A (en) * 1966-06-23 1969-08-12 Du Pont Laminated fibrous batt
US4062993A (en) * 1973-05-31 1977-12-13 Seward William W Textile and method of making same

Cited By (35)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4569874A (en) * 1985-04-17 1986-02-11 Lawrence Kuznetz Sportswear fabric for cold climates
USRE35427E (en) * 1986-07-25 1997-01-21 O.R. Concepts, Inc. Sterilizable reflective surgical drape
USRE34816E (en) * 1986-07-25 1995-01-03 O.R. Concepts, Inc. Reflective surgical drape
WO1988000818A1 (en) * 1986-07-25 1988-02-11 O.R. Concepts, Inc. Reflective surgical drape
US4945924A (en) * 1986-07-25 1990-08-07 O.R. Concepts, Inc. Sterilizable reflective surgical drape
US4889135A (en) * 1986-07-25 1989-12-26 O. R. Concepts, Inc. Reflective surgical drape
US4765323A (en) * 1986-07-25 1988-08-23 O. R. Concepts, Inc. Reflective surgical drape
US4905710A (en) * 1987-02-28 1990-03-06 Jones David A Surgical drape
EP0281331A1 (en) * 1987-02-28 1988-09-07 David Anthony Jones Surgical drape
US4837067A (en) * 1987-06-08 1989-06-06 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Nonwoven thermal insulating batts
US4927705A (en) * 1988-08-08 1990-05-22 Syme Robert W Insulating laminate
US4974382A (en) * 1989-01-06 1990-12-04 Constructonika, Inc. Infiltration and energy barrier
EP0464350A1 (en) * 1990-06-13 1992-01-08 LAMAGOLD MIT DEM GRÜNEN KREUZ NATURHAARBETTEN GmbH Complete bed, comprising a bed cover, bed underlay, pillow and additional mat
WO2001092618A2 (en) * 2000-06-02 2001-12-06 Soleno Textiles Techniques Inc. Sound and thermal insulating non-woven synthetic sheet material
US6514889B1 (en) 2000-06-02 2003-02-04 Soleno Textiles Technique Inc. Sound and thermal insulating non-woven synthetic sheet material
WO2001092618A3 (en) * 2000-06-02 2002-05-02 Soleno Textiles Tech Inc Sound and thermal insulating non-woven synthetic sheet material
WO2001094108A3 (en) * 2000-06-07 2002-07-18 Milliken & Co Flexible hanger strap composite
WO2001094108A2 (en) * 2000-06-07 2001-12-13 Milliken & Company Flexible hanger strap composite
US20050112338A1 (en) * 2003-11-21 2005-05-26 Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Reduced-noise composite materials and disposable personal care devices employing same
US7758557B2 (en) 2003-11-21 2010-07-20 Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Reduced-noise composite materials and disposable personal care devices employing same
GB2448469A (en) * 2004-10-22 2008-10-22 Hunt Tech Ltd Multi-layer thermal insulation system
AU2005297091B2 (en) * 2004-10-22 2011-01-27 Hunt Technology Limited Multi-layer thermal insulation system
GB2432812B (en) * 2004-10-22 2008-02-20 Hunt Tech Ltd Multi-layer thermal insulation system
GB2443811A (en) * 2004-10-22 2008-05-21 Hunt Tech Ltd Multi-layer insulation system
US20080032114A1 (en) * 2004-10-22 2008-02-07 Hunt Technology Limited Multi-Layer Thermal Insulation System
GB2432812A (en) * 2004-10-22 2007-06-06 Hunt Tech Ltd Multi-layer thermal insulation system
GB2443811B (en) * 2004-10-22 2009-04-08 Hunt Tech Ltd Multi-layer thermal insulation system
GB2448469B (en) * 2004-10-22 2009-06-03 Hunt Tech Ltd Multi-layer thermal insulation system
WO2006043092A1 (en) * 2004-10-22 2006-04-27 Hunt Technology Limited Multi-layer thermal insulation system
WO2008077392A1 (en) * 2006-12-22 2008-07-03 Hubertus Brune Cover for covering extensive bodies
CN103538328A (en) * 2013-09-27 2014-01-29 苏州金荣华轻纺实业有限公司 Oxygen-inhaling shell fabric
US20180184737A1 (en) * 2017-01-03 2018-07-05 Ronie Reuben Article of warmth with inner replaceable thermally insulating panels
US10512291B2 (en) * 2017-01-03 2019-12-24 Ronie Reuben Article of warmth with inner replaceable thermally insulating panels
US11564448B2 (en) 2019-05-10 2023-01-31 Converse Inc. Reflective textile
US11889893B2 (en) 2019-05-10 2024-02-06 Converse Inc. Reflective textile

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4433019A (en) Insulative fabric
US4583247A (en) Garment including composite insulation material
CA2129957C (en) Mattress cover
US3859678A (en) Disposable bed covering
US7150055B2 (en) Multi-layered bedclothes material
KR100344076B1 (en) Warmth Multi-layer Nonwoven Batt
GB2187090A (en) Mattress
US4387293A (en) Electric heating appliance
GB2159050A (en) Quilt
JPS6145198Y2 (en)
US3985130A (en) Method of and means for treating burn victims
JP3013484U (en) Rug
US4600623A (en) Padded material
JPH07184761A (en) Plural layer laid body
JPH01113006A (en) Cushion for futon or the like
CN215686224U (en) Anti-mite and antibacterial multi-layer soft bed mattress structure
JPH0573Y2 (en)
JP3045700U (en) Healthy bedding
JPS6223771Y2 (en)
JPH10179337A (en) Pneumatic bedding
RU16928U1 (en) NONWOVE LAMINATED THERMAL INSULATION MATERIAL
JP3044009U (en) mattress
JPH0334158Y2 (en)
JPS623365Y2 (en)
JPH0410039Y2 (en)

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: SURCHARGE FOR LATE PAYMENT, SMALL ENTITY, PL 97-247 (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M277); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

MAFP Maintenance fee payment

Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YR, SMALL ENTITY, PL 97-247 (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M273); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

Year of fee payment: 4

MAFP Maintenance fee payment

Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 8TH YR, SMALL ENTITY, PL 97-247 (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M274); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

Year of fee payment: 8

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 19960221

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362